POS1523-HPR PATIENT SATISFACTION SURVEY OF A SPECIALIST PHARMACIST RUN RHEUMATOLOGY BIOLOGIC AND JAK INHIBITOR CLINIC
Authors: C. Jones, J. Trickey
Journal: Annals of the Rheumatic Diseases (2022)

Background Hereford Rheumatology Department, UK, treats over 850 patients on biologic disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs (bDMARDs) and JAK inhibitors (JAKi). The multidisciplinary team (MDT) includes a Specialist Rheumatology Pharmacist running clinics for all adult Rheumatology patients who have been identified for bDMARD or JAKi initiation or switch by their responsible Consultant. Patients can feel anxious during the pre-treatment screening process and require reassurance about medication safety. This innovative role has been a well-received asset to the Rheumatology MDT, but patients’ perceptions of the role are unknown. To our knowledge, there is no similar study within British Rheumatology practice. Objectives The survey aims to gauge patient satisfaction of the consultation from a pharmacist-run bDMARD and JAKi initiation and switch clinic. Methods A generic patient satisfaction survey was piloted with positive results. Following this, a bespoke survey was developed, specifically enquiring about patients’ perceptions of the consultation skills, clarity, education and reassurance provided by the pharmacist. A Likert scale was used where appropriate and a space for free text was included. The Trust’s Patient Experience Team was consulted to ensure clarity for patients. In consecutive weekly clinics from July 2021 to January 2022, the survey was given to all patients immediately following Specialist Rheumatology Pharmacist clinic. The majority of patients were seen face-to-face however the survey was posted to the patient if telephone consultation was necessary. Clinic staff collected the completed surveys to ensure patient anonymity. Results 57 of 58 patients completed the survey, with 100% stating they were pleased to receive counselling from a pharmacist. Patients were asked to score their knowledge of the medication out of 10, before and after the consultation; they reported a mean increase in knowledge of 3.9/10. The remaining survey results show mostly positive feedback (Table 1). Table 1. Patient rating of experience in pharmacist clinic. Statement No answer Strongly disagree Disagree Neither Agree Strongly agree The pharmacist put me at ease 0 0 0 0 11 46 The information provided was easy for me to understand. 1 0 0 1 13 42 The pharmacist listened to what I had to say. 0 0 0 0 9 48 The pharmacist showed care and sensitivity to my Rheumatological condition. 0 0 0 0 11 46 The pharmacist appeared knowledgeable about the medication to be started. 0 0 0 0 8 49 I feel that the medication I am starting has been chosen for me as an individual. 1 0 0 1 17 38 I understand why we are starting the new medication. 0 0 0 2 10 45 I have been told about the side effects the medication could cause. 0 0 0 0 11 46 I feel that it is safe to start the new medication. 1 0 1 6 15 34 I was able to discuss my concerns and ask questions about the new medication. 0 0 0 0 11 46 I felt included in the decision to start or change to new medication. 1 0 0 2 11 43 Overall, my experience in the pharmacist clinic today was a positive one* 4 0 0 0 10 43 *Statement excludes results from 4 patients who did not complete the second page of the survey. Conclusion The results demonstrate the high level of patient satisfaction attained from the Specialist Pharmacist clinic. A small number of patients remain sceptical about medication safety, despite discussion. Inclusion of a pharmacist is especially useful to manage the increasing number of patients starting these medications, maintaining excellent patient experience, reducing the workload for other Rheumatology staff, and ensuring a robust MDT. References Not applicable. Disclosure of Interests Claire Jones Speakers bureau: Presented to rheumatology pharmacists at King’s College hospital London, Dec 2017. Purpose: to share my role to aid their development. Paid by UCB: £1000., Consultant of: Focus group for Fresenius Kabi Sept 2021. Received £500 honorarium, Jeanette Trickey: None declared